CROWNS & Bridges

WHAT ARE CROWNS

Dental crowns (often referred to simply as “crowns”) are tooth-shaped caps that are placed over damaged or weakened teeth. They are designed to restore a tooth’s shape, size, strength, and appearance, essentially covering the visible portion of the tooth above the gum line. Crowns can be made from a variety of materials, including porcelain, ceramic, metal alloys, or a combination of these.

The Process of Getting a Crown

  1. Preparation: The tooth is shaped so the crown can fit properly.
  2. Impressions: The dentist takes an impression (traditional or digital) to create a custom crown.
  3. Temporary Crown: A temporary crown is placed while the permanent one is being fabricated at a dental lab.
  4. Fitting and Cementation: Once the permanent crown is ready, it is cemented onto the prepared tooth.

With proper care—regular brushing, flossing, and dental check-ups—crowns can last many years, helping you maintain both the function and appearance of your teeth.

Fixed Bridges

A dental bridge is a fixed dental restoration used to replace one or more missing teeth, bridging the gap by relying on the support of the neighboring healthy teeth or dental implants. It typically consists of an artificial tooth (or teeth) called a pontic, which is held in place by crowns that are cemented onto the adjacent supporting teeth (or attached to implants). By filling in gaps, bridges help maintain proper bite alignment, prevent nearby teeth from shifting, and restore both the function and appearance of your smile.

A dental bridge is a fixed (non-removable) appliance and is an excellent way to replace missing teeth.
There are several types of bridges. You and your dentist will discuss the best options for your particular case. The “traditional bridge” is the most popular type and is usually made of porcelain fused to metal. Porcelain fixed bridges are most popular because they resemble your natural teeth. This type of bridge consists to two crowns that go over two anchoring teeth (abutment teeth) and are attached to pontics (artificial teeth), filling the gap created by one or more missing teeth.
Dental bridges are highly durable and will last many years, however they may need replacement or need to be re-cemented due to normal wear.

Reasons for a fixed bridge

Professional dental cleanings (dental prophylaxis) are usually performed by Registered Dental Hygienists.  Your cleaning appointment will include a dental exam and the following

01

Fill space of missing teeth.

02

Maintain facial shape.

03

Prevent remaining teeth from drifting out of position.

04

Restore chewing and speaking ability.

05

Restore your smile.

06

Upgrade from a removable partial denture to a permanent dental appliance.

What does getting a fixed bridge involve?

Getting a bridge usually requires two or more visits. While the teeth are numb, the two anchoring teeth are prepared by removing a portion of enamel to allow for a crown. Next, a highly accurate impression (mold) is made which will be sent to a dental laboratory where the bridge will be fabricated. In addition, a temporary bridge will be made and worn for several weeks until your next appointment.
At the second visit, you permanent bridge will be carefully checked, adjusted, and cemented to achieve a proper fit. Occasionally your dentist may only temporarily cement the bridge, allowing your teeth and tissue time to get used to the new bridge. The new bridge will be permanently cemented at a later time.
You will receive care instructions at the conclusion of your treatment. Proper brushing, flossing and regular dental visits will aid in the life of your new permanent bridge.